Lacquer Embassy

Nikhil Sharma’s label, Lacquer Embassy, was born out of a desire to realize the aesthetics he cultivated throughout his travels, life experiences, and his own experiments in style. Along with the label, Nikhil also styles various campaigns and continues to work as a freelance fashion forecast trend consultant.

A graduate from NIFT, Nikhil went on to pursue his Master's Degree in Design from Nottingham Trent University in the UK. After receiving Distinction in his M.A. he worked as a senior menswear designer in London for British high street brands such as Chilli Pepper and NEXT. In the duration of his work with these brands, Nikhil traveled extensively to many European and American cities for inspiration, later visiting factories in Turkey and other countries in South Asia to bring his designs to fruition. His travels around the world, together with his propensity for experimentation and his cosmopolitan character, catapulted him into the international market, and have continued to provide a source of inspiration.

In London, he branched out to work as a stylist and a forecasting consultant, working for various fashion forecast trend agencies. He thereby styled men’s editorials for journals and coffee table books published in London and in other cities such as New York and Istanbul. Nikhil was also featured as one of the finalists for GQ’s Personal Style Diary in South Africa.

When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer?

I initially wanted to study architecture. Having also applied to a fashion school, my portfolio was appreciated and I was given an offer to join. I decided to give it a shot even though this wasn’t the original plan. Since I started I had an inclination towards menswear. I was not interested in women's clothes at all; I think it came with ease for me to design what I would wear.

What was your first job in the fashion industry?

After receiving Distinction in my M.A.from NTU, UK I worked as a senior menswear designer in London for British high street brands such as Chilli Pepper and NEXT for a couple of years. I then branched out to work as a stylist and a forecasting consultant, working for various fashion forecast trend agencies

Tell us about your Lacquer Embassy

Lacquer Embassy combines classic influences with a modern culture focusing heavily on attention to detail and minimalist silhouettes. The label aims to encompass the fusion of relaxed elegance of youth and luxury with a definite sense of modern aesthetics. The designs are brought about from an uncomplicated perspective. I have always had a strong graphic sensibility since I started studying fashion which comes through in my brand now. There is an emphasis on prints and patterns, while still maintaining fairly simple tailored silhouettes so they are very wearable. The aesthetics of the brand fits in with our contemporary lifestyles, where the laid back and unfussy outfits are a necessity, even during the most semi-formal occasions. I think these days, formal and casual have become interchangeable in the modern world

What do you like about your work?

Being clean and fuss-free is what I like. I like to create stuff that can be worn. It gives me satisfaction to see people wear my creations more than models wearing it on a runway. Being an approachable yet different brand is what I think I like about my label.

What advice would you pass along to those starting out in the Fashion Business?

Well, I think just stay true to yourself and the work which you have passion for but yes, do keep it real. Being practical especially in today's world would be my only advice.

What inspires you?

Travel,music,internet,visuals,journeys,graphics inspire me.

To find more about the Brand please visit: Lacquer Embassy